After weeks of grief and mourning in the Ghanaian music fraternity over the sad demise of Sonni Balli, the legendary Ghanaian dancehall singer has been laid to rest in the United Kingdom, where he was born.
One of the musician’s pals, Mark Darlington, announced his passing on Facebook, and according to local media reports, he died of a heart arrest a few days after turning 40 on June 6.
Sonni Balli, who was responsible for local classics including “The Truth,” “Frienemy,” “Ama Frimpong,” and “When You Are Gone,” among others, was hailed as a champion of the reggae subgenre in Ghana. In particular, Samini, who belongs to a new generation of Ghanaian dancehall musicians, is attributed with his guidance.
His passing provoked a social media outpouring of mourning.
Sonni Balli born June 6 1982, lovingly referred to himself as a “soul healer” because he thought that his music could uplift people’s spirits and make them happy.
The first of three kids, he was born. When he was still alive, the Dancehall artist recalled his parents’ constant wish for him to become a doctor. Sonni, however, started singing in his church’s choir when he was just 9 years old.
His parents fiercely opposed his intention to pursue a career in music, but at the age of 17, he linked up with well-known music producer Nana King against their wishes.
The two created the albums “Kotoho” and “Abrabo” together. Sonni Balli was an influence on people like Samini, Stonebwoy, Shatta Wale, and many more in addition to his own professional achievement in the music industry.
Sonni Balli was a social activist who urged all Africans to uphold their cultural identity. Sonni created music a result that not only spoke to his culture but was also admirable to all music fans.
By: Jude Tackie
